Could mystery epilepsy Samaritan Tom be from Sussex?

Anna Coe

A national campaign is under way to try and track down mystery man ‘Tom’ who came to the rescue of a student when she had a seizure on the Southern train from Redhill to London Victoria.

Twenty-seven-year old Ellie Farnfield, a part-time acupuncture student from Reigate, was on route to teach a fitness class when the seizure happened earlier this month.

The first Ellie knew about it was when she came round in a confused state to find train staff had been alerted, 14 people listed in her mobile phone had been contacted, and ‘Tom’ had left her a cup of coffee, £10 for a taxi home and a letter apologising that he had been unable to do more.

In the note, written on a torn out piece of lined paper, Tom said: “Hi Eleanor. I hope by the time you read this you are feeling better. You had a seizure on the train and I took you off. You didn’t hit your head but I may have hurt your leg as I walked on it before realising you were on the floor having a fit! Sorry!

“I’m also sorry I can’t stay with you now but here is a coffee to perk you up later and £10 to make sure you get a taxi home. Sorry I don’t have any more money so I hope you don’t live far away. I’ve contacted people from your phone and medical help is on its way and you’re with train staff. Wishing you all the best and a quick recovery. Love Tom.”

Meanwhile the charity Epilepsy Society has praised the big-hearted Samaritan for his kindness and quick thinking.

Helpline manager Christine Brock said: “Too often we hear or read about people either being ignored or mistreated when they have a seizure in public. This is an example of just how supportive and caring members of the public can be.”

Ellie has since turned to Facebook in the hopes of tracking down Tom so she can thank him for his kindness and consideration.

Launching a #findtraintom campaign, she posted Tom’s note on Facebook and wrote: “Faith restored in humanity in London last night. Thank you so much to everyone who helped me last night - especially ‘Tom’.

“Would love to try and find this man so I can return his money and add many, many thanks to it!!”

Ellie said that her family and friends had fully embraced the #findtraintom campaign but as yet he has not made contact.

A spokesman for Southern, the train operator for that section of the line, said: “What this mystery man Tom did just goes to show how thoughtful and kind-hearted many of our passengers are.

“This would have been a frightening experience but thanks to our good Samaritan this young lady woke up in good hands with a taxi fare home.”

Since many Southern trains to London Victoria via Redhill, Tom could hail from Sussex. Do you know who Tom is? Get in touch by going to our Facebook or Twitter feeds or email reporter Anna Coe at anna.coe@jpress.co.uk

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